Muslim Leader Presents Quran to Maori King

On 29 October 2013, the World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat and Fifth Khalifa, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad was welcomed by King Tuheitia at the Turangawaewae Marae in New Zealand and given a traditional welcome by the Maori community.

Upon arrival at 10.30am, three members of the Maori community welcomed Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad with a traditional Maori warrior exhibition.

The Maoris began the exhibition at a far distance from His Holiness but advanced step by step whilst roaring in their native tongue, whilst female members of the Maori community chanted from the side.

As His Holiness proceeded through the Marae, dozens of Maori children and elders also partook in the welcome by chanting in the Maori language.

During the formal session, a number of Maori elders welcomed Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad with short speeches. The elders recognised His Holiness as “an inspirational and strong leader who advocates for peace.”

The highlight of the event was when Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad presented King Tuheitia with a copy of the Holy Quran, recently translated into the Maori language by Mr Shaqeel Ahmad Munir.

During the presentation ceremony, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad addressed the tribal elders and thanked them for their traditional welcome.

Speaking about the Quran, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“The Quran teaches people how to live together in peace and certainly today we need love, peace and reconciliation to spread far and wide – that is the message of the Quran.”

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad concluded his address by expressing his hope that the mutual friendship developed between the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat and the Maori Community would last forever.